Parts Unknown (2013-2018)
The acclaimed Parts Unknown series is considered by many to rank among the world’s best travel shows. Hosted by Anthony Bourdain, the late chef and writer, the Emmy-winning Parts Unknown featured episodes set in different cities and countries around the world. While the series ostensibly focused on food and dining, Bourdain also did a remarkable job of connecting the viewer to each place and its people, along with its history and cultural traditions. At times humorous, often poignant, Parts Unknown invited views to explore gastronomic culture, food rituals, and societies from around the globe.
- Number of seasons: 12 seasons
- Average episode length: 42 minutes
- IMDb score: 8.9/10
Globe Trekker (1994)
From 1994 to 2016, for viewers interested in what were relatively unknown destinations, Globe Trekker was certainly on any travel documentary viewing guide. Drawing inspiration from the Lonely Planet travel books, the British adventure travel series highlighted distinctive landscapes and exciting destinations, aiming to present a more genuine view of local culture, and occasionally sharing travel tips. The documentary series, which won numerous awards, resumed production in 2024.
- Number of seasons: 17 seasons
- Average episode length: An hour
- IMDb score: 8.6/10
Travel Man (2015-2019)
The Travel Man series revolves around the idea of spending “48 hours in popular cities.” During each episode, comedian and actor Richard Ayoade, accompanied by a notable guest, dedicates 48 hours to discovering the attractions of a well-known city. One destination was, of course, Istanbul; other destinations include countries like Iceland, and cities such as Marrakech, Vienna, Paris, Berlin, and many others. The initial nine seasons were hosted by Ayoade; comedian Joe Lycett is hosting subsequent seasons. We encourage you to view this production to experience the highlights of the most popular cities across various countries.
- Number of seasons: 12 seasons
- Average episode length: 24 minutes
- IMDb score: 8.2/10
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Long Way Down (2007)
This highly rated travel documentary chronicles a motorcycle journey from Scotland to South Africa and is considered by many to be one of the finest travel films ever made. Long Way Down, with impressive IMDb ratings, is a collaboration of two actors, Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman. The two set off on a motorbike adventure spanning several months, beginning in the northern reaches of Scotland, traveling through Europe, and ultimately reaching Cape Town, South Africa. McGregor and Boorman navigate unusual and sometimes challenging landscapes, embracing the role of storytellers with humor and sensitivity. Do include Long Way Down in your collection of remarkable travel documentaries!
- Number of seasons: 1 season
- Average episode length: 52 minutes
- IMDb score: 8.3/10
Long Way Up (2020)
In this impressive travel documentary, Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman reunite more than a decade after Long Way Down, inviting audiences to join them on another thrilling motorbike adventure. Traveling through Central and South America, the duo ride approximately 21,000 kilometers over one hundred days, showcasing spectacular landscapes throughout the 100-day motorbike journey. The film stands out among the finest travel documentaries globally and is especially captivating for anyone with a passion for motorcycle travel.
- Number of seasons: 1 season
- Average episode length: 45 minutes
- IMDb score: 8.2/10
Rick Steves’ Europe (2000-2023)
Rick Steves, the seasoned traveler, author, and travel expert, guides viewers through beloved European cities in this documentary series. Featuring a diverse array of European destinations from Turkey to Germany and England to Scotland, each 25-minute episode focuses on interesting elements in each place. In one episode, Steves explores the aristocratic history of France; in another, he highlights notable sights in the Netherlands. This remarkable travel documentary encourages viewers to prepare for an exciting journey through Europe.
- Number of seasons: 12 seasons
- Average episode length: 25 minutes
- IMDb score: 8.6/10
The Grand Tour (2016)
The Grand Tour is another popular choice among highly rated travel documentaries. Shot in a style reminiscent of a car and engine-oriented show and featuring action-packed scenes, Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May embark on various trips around the world, with their explorations extending far beyond the automotive realm. In terms of productions centered on automobiles and travel, The Grand Tour stands out among must-watch travel documentaries.
- Number of seasons: 5 seasons (Continues)
- Average episode length: An hour
- IMDb score: 8.7/10
Planet Earth (2006)
For years, Planet Earth has served as a remarkable showcase for wildlife around the world, with each episode in the acclaimed documentary series delving into a unique habitat and its inhabitants. Narrated by David Attenborough, the show takes viewers on extraordinary and visually stunning journeys through diverse regions and habitats, from vast oceans to shallow seas and from dense forests to hidden caves. A travel series with consistently high IMDb scores, the production continues to hold its position as one of the all-time best travel documentaries.
- Number of seasons: 2 seasons
- Average episode length: An hour
- IMDb score: 9.4/10
Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond the Lobby (2017)
In this series, Giles Coren and Monica Galetti travel the globe, visiting some of the world’s most beautiful and illustrious hotels. From Singapore to Morocco and from Sweden to London, the series is even more exciting as it focuses on the staff and personnel at each hotel, exploring the areas beyond the lobby and revealing locations and behind-the-scenes activities typically unknown to the public.
- Number of seasons: 5 seasons
- Average episode length: 50 minutes
- IMDb score: 7.7/10
If you enjoy watching travel series and documentaries, we are sure you will love our selection of seven must-see movies for travel lovers as well!
